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Beauty

The signature lipstick shades FQ’s editors wear… and why we love them

When it comes to lipstick, we all have our signature shade.

For each individual there’s that certain colour that can instantly make you look more awake or will make you feel like a million dollars, all with a quick slick of the lip. For some, putting on their lipstick is like putting on a suit of armour for the day – and it’s even better when you find the right formulation that gives you the level of coverage you’re after with just the right amount of longevity and nourishing qualities.

Estée Lauder’s new Pure Color Envy Matte lipstick range hits all of the right notes, with its wide-ranging colour palette and three different lip-sculpting matte finishes – Sheer, Velvet and Metallic.

Here the FQ team talk through their signature lip colours and why it’s their go-to shade.

Sally-Ann Mullin, editor

Because: A rich, deep Syrah with a metallic matte finish, it looks equally good lightly pressed onto the lip as a sheer lip stain as it does as a full-noise painted lip. I’ve even used a little on my cheeks as a blush once or twice! Metallics are the next big trend in lips and add subtle dimension and volume – which is always a good thing in my opinion.

I always wear it with: As this shade is so bold, I try to keep the rest of my beauty look fairly pared back.

I always wear it to: Work! When I have a lip “on”, I feel like I’m ready for anything. If I go out in the evening I’ll choose something more natural but if I have my work hat on, it’s a bold lip for me.

A woman whose lip look I envy is: Dita Von Teese – I love her retro glamour and I’m a sucker for a milky white complexion.

Phoebe Watt, features writer

Because: It’s very, very rare that I stray from a true red lipstick — I figure if I’m going to the effort I might as well go hard or go home. This shade delivers on the drama front and the name speaks to me on a spiritual level.

I always wear it with: A severe low bun, gold crucifix earrings or pearl studs, and either head to toe black lace (think a funereal Dolce and Gabbana campaign), or a white shirt, jeans and heels. And a withering glare.

I always wear it to: Work.

A woman whose lip look I envy is: Kendall Jenner. She does classic beauty to perfection and wears that Estée Lauder red so well.

Megan Bedford, beauty editor

Because: I like a left-of-centre lip and this is definitely not the most obvious choice. A plum-y magenta, it’a a statement maker, meaning I can leave the rest of my look simple and subtle. The natural butters found in the sheer matte formula also helps to nourish lips, which is perfect during seasonal transitions.

I always wear it with: Black! As that’s what I most often wear but it actually looks amazing with a white shirt and blue denim too.

I always wear it to: Work, or Friday night drinks.

A woman whose lip look I envy is: Rihanna because she changes it up a lot, and I love a woman that plays with her beauty look.

Kelly McAuliffe, digital editor

Because: To me, there is nothing more beautiful than your own lip colour slightly enhanced for that slightly pinched-lip look. I think this colour does just that.

I always wear it with: This colour is so versatile you could literally team it with any beauty look or outfit. My personal fave? A sunkissed Victoria’s Secret Angel look with bronzey eyes, glowy highlighted cheekbones and natural brushed up brows.

I always wear it to: I literally wear this lip to pick up milk at the corner store, I’m that attached to it.